Concept and Management of Waja'al-Mafasil (Arthritis) in Unani System of Medicine.

Arthritis is described in Unani system of Medicine under a broad term Waja'al-Mafāsil which covers entire joint disorders like inflammatory, non-inflammatory, infectious, metabolic and other musculoskeletal disorders. According to Unani concept, the pathological changes in the joints are caused mainly by derangement of humoural (Akhlat) temperament and accumulation of Fasid madda (Morbid material) in the joint spaces. The main principles of treatment in Unani system of Medicine include Ilaj bi'l Ghidha (Dieto-therapy), Ilaj bi'l Tadbir (Regimenal therapy) and Ilaj bi'l Dawa (Pharmacotherapy). All the said principles are recommended for the treatment of Waja'al-Mafāsil. The aim of treatment for patient with Waja'al-Mafāsil is to reduce morbidity and disability. In India it affects 15% (180 million) people. Ancient Unani scholars have elaborately described Waja'al-Mafāsil and managed with multidimensional approach, whereas with the present day management of disease mainly with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which have large number of adverse effects. This review article highlight the salient features describing arthritis with reference to Waja'al-Mafāsil for empathizing disease condition as enunciated by Unani scholars to provide a better alternative in terms of cost effective managements and side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]